Located in the Virunga Mountains, within Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Nyiragongo Crater is a breathtaking natural wonder at Mount Nyiragongo.

Mount Nyiragongo is an active stratovolcano that stands at 3,470 meters (11,385 feet) and features this 1.2-kilometer-wide summit crater with a lava lake that has been active since at least 1971.

The Nyiragongo Crater has several distinctive platforms, including the upper platform P1, which marks the highest lava lake level reached in 1972, and platform P2, the largest platform, which represents the last level reached by the lava lake in 1995. The crater floor, platform P3, is home to the lava lake, surrounded by gentle slopes.

Nyiragongo eruptions come to close to 35 times since 1882, with devastating consequences. The 1977 and 2002 eruptions were destructive, causing widespread damage and displacement.

The lava lake’s level has fluctuated over the years, with a maximum elevation recorded in 1972 and a low point in 2002.

Additionally, the Nyiragongo Crater offers visitors an exhilarating experience with its majestic landscape, bubbling lava lake, turquoise lake, and stunning vistas.

The crater’s unique beauty is a testament to the awe-inspiring power of geological forces and the importance of preserving our planet’s natural wonders.

Here is a detailed overview.

Crater At Mount Nyiragongo Location – Where Is the Nyiragongo Crater Located? | Mount Nyiragongo

The Nyiragongo crater is located at Mount Nyiragongo, which is located in the Virunga Mountains range, or Virunga Massif, within Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It is a breathtaking natural wonder.

Mount Nyiragongo is situated near the town of Goma, North Kivu province, approximately 12 kilometers north of Goma, and close to the border with Rwanda, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a unique geological formation.

As part of the Albertine Rift Zone in the western branch of the East African Rift System, Nyiragongo is an active stratovolcano that rises 3,470 meters above sea level.

Its 1.2-1.3-kilometer-wide summit crater features a lava lake filled with molten red lava that has been active since at least 1971, with a depth of approximately 820 feet and a relatively small turquoise water lake.

Volcanic activity has shaped the crater’s landscape, including a 2006 overflow that created a new terrace.

The mountain also features multiple climbing routes, including Kibati, Kibumba, Rungunda, and Masisi, as well as steep walls, and rugged terrain with sharp rocks, Nyiragongo Crater is a breathtaking natural wonder that’s a must-visit on any Congo adventure safari.

It is worth noting that the Nyiragongo volcanic field is surrounded by other notable volcanoes, including Nyamulagira, Karisimbi, and Mikeno, as well as Lake Kivu to the south, making it a must-visit on any Congo adventure safari.

The Stunning Nyiragongo Crater Geology and Physical Characteristics

The Nyiragongo crater found at the Nyiragongo a stratovolcano located in the Virunga Mountains, within the Albertine Rift Zone, has the following characteristics listed below;

• Volcanic Composition and Structure

Lava Lake Nyiragongo’s cone consists of pyroclastics and with a history of highly fluid and fast-moving lava flows, with a composition characterized by low-silica, alkali-rich, ultramafic extrusive rocks.

The rocks are essentially free of feldspars and contain minerals such as nepheline, leucite, melilite, kalsilite, and clinopyroxene.

• Lava Lake and Magma Chamber

The crater floor is occupied by a persistent and world’s largest lava lake, which has been active since at least 1971.

The lava lake is fed by a magma chamber located beneath the volcano, estimated to be around 2-5 kilometers deep.

The world’s largest lava lake is composed of highly fluid and alkaline lava that can reach extremely high temperatures of up to 1,000°C (1,832°F).

• Rock Types and Mineralogy

The Nyiragongo volcano is characterized by a range of rock types, including basanites, melilites, and nephelinites.

The rocks contain a range of minerals, including olivine, pyroxene, melilite, nepheline, and plagioclase.

• Geochemical Aspects and Characteristics 

The rocks of Nyiragongo are characterized by high concentrations of alkalis and alkaline earth elements, as well as high levels of incompatible elements such as barium and strontium.

• Crater Form /Morphology

The Nyiragongo Crater is a steep-sided, summit crater, approximately 1.2 kilometers wide and 250-300 meters deep.

The crater’s rim is relatively flat and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

• Volcanic Eruptions and Activity

Nyiragongo is an active stratovolcano, with a history of highly fluid and fast-moving lava flows.

The volcano has experienced several major eruptions in recent history, including the 1977 and 2002 eruptions which caused significant damage and displacement.

Nyiragongo Crater History

The history of the Nyiragongo crater back over 10,000 years to around the 1890s when the Nyiragongo volcano is believed to have formed around 10,000 years ago.

The Nyiragongo volcano was named “Nyiragongo” originating from the Kinyarwanda language, meaning “smoking mountain.”

In 1894, German explorer Adolf von Götzen became the first European to reach the summit, and Belgian colonizers later explored and studied the volcano. However, Nyiragongo’s lava lake was first observed in 1948.

The volcano then erupted in 1977, causing widespread destruction and killing over 2,000 people. Another major eruption occurred in 2002, with lava flows reaching the city of Goma and displacing thousands of people.

In 2011-2012, the volcano experienced increased seismicity and lava lake activity and as such in 2021, Nyiragongo erupted again, with lava flows threatening the city of Goma. The eruption resulted in at least 32 deaths and significant damage.

As of 2023, the volcano continued to experience low-level activity, with a persistent lava lake and occasional gas emissions.

The Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG) and satellite data monitor the volcano’s activity.

Monitoring Of Nyiragongo Crater – Who Monitors the Nyiragongo Crater Lake?

The Nyiragongo volcano and crater lake are continuously monitored by a team of scientists at the Goma Volcanic Observatory (GVO) and other local and international organizations such as;

• Goma Volcano Observatory (GVO)
• Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG)
• Volcanological Survey of Rwanda (MRS)
• International organizations: Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program (GVP) and United States Geological Survey (USGS) Volcano Hazards Program

The GVO provides real-time monitoring, with seismic data produced every four minutes and temperature data every ten minutes.

Researchers have developed a model of Nyiragongo’s magmatic system, which consists of two crustal chambers at depths of 10-14 km and 1-4 km beneath the main edifice.

These chambers are fed by a mantle source located 80-150 km deep. The shallow magma chamber is likely connected to the lava lake, explaining its persistent activity.

However, funding for the GVO is uncertain, with the World Bank terminating its contributions in 2020.

The Amazing Nyiragongo Crater Biodiversity | Top Things to See at Mount Nyiragongo Crater

The Nyiragongo crater is a biodiversity hotspot and unique natural habitat, supporting a wide range of unique and endemic species, and providing insights into the complex interactions between geology, climate, and life.

Here is a breakdown!

• Rare Endemic Species

The Nyiragongo crater is home to several endemic species found nowhere else on Earth, including the Nyiragongo bushbaby (Galago Nyiragongo), L’Hoest’s Monkey, Hamlyn’s Monkey, Virunga Owl-faced Monkey, Nyiragongo Red Duiker, Ruwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, and the Ruwenzori turaco among other endemics.

• Wildlife Species

Nyiragongo Crater is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bushbabies, duikers, bushbucks, buffaloes, Rare Okapi, and elephants among other species that can be seen when on a hike to Mount Nyiragongo safari.

• Outstanding Primate Species

The crater is home to a variety of primates, including chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla), and several species of monkeys, such as the L’Hoest’s monkey, golden monkeys, and the Hamlyn’s monkey among others.

• Extraordinary Bird Species

The Nyiragongo crater supports a diverse array of bird species, including;

• The iconic shoebill stork
• The African fish eagle
• The rare and endangered Congo peafowl
• Ruwenzori Turaco
• Ruwenzori Double-collared Sunbird
• Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill
• Crowned Hawk-Eagle
• African Goshawk
• Mountain Buzzard
• Bar-tailed Trogon

• Abundant Vegetation

The lava lake Nyiragongo is characterized and surrounded by a unique mosaic of vegetation types, including tropical rainforest, montane forest, volcanic vegetation (viscous lava-resistant plants and thermal-resistant mosses), and alpine vegetation i.e. Alpine meadows, subalpine forests, etc.

The crater’s slopes support a variety of plant species, including giant senecios, lobelias, and tree ferns.

• Micro-Ecosystems

The Nyiragongo crater’s unique geology and microclimate support a variety of micro-ecosystems, including thermal vents, crater lakes, and unique soil formations like volcanic ash, etc.

Mount Nyiragongo’s volcanic soils are remarkably fertile, boasting an abundance of valuable minerals like coltan, cassiterite, and wolframite, which are embedded in the mountain’s rugged rocks.

This mineral wealth generates significant revenue for local communities, rendering the mountain a unique and economically vital destination.

Ultimately, the Nyiragongo crater, located within Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a unique and fascinating ecosystem that supports a remarkable array of biodiversity. 

How Best to See the Nyiragongo Crater on Mount Nyiragongo? -Hiking Mount Nyiragongo

For a breathtaking view of the Nyiragongo crater, hike Mount Nyiragongo, home to the world’s largest lava lake.

This exhilarating hike is broken into five manageable sections, with regular 15-minute breaks to rest and take in the stunning scenery.

Hiking Routes to The Summit! 

• The Kibati Route: The most popular route, spanning 12km, starts at the Kibati Ranger Post (1,975m) and takes 4-6 hours to reach the summit.

• The Kibumba Route: Beginning at the Kibumba Patrol Post (2,300m), this route takes 6-8 hours to reach the summit.

• The Rungunda Route: Starting at the Rungunda Patrol Post (2,100m), hikers can reach the summit in 7-9 hours.

• The Masisi Route: This route starts at the Masisi Patrol Post (2,400m) and requires 8-10 hours to reach the summit.

This Is What to Expect!

The 10-12 km round-trip using the Kibati hike trail takes 4-6 hours to complete, depending on physical fitness and acclimatization.

The hike begins at 1,870 meters at the Kibati Ranger Post and ascends to 3,470 meters, with an elevation gain of 1,480 meters.

The ascent of Mount Nyiragongo unfolds through diverse landscapes, offering a rich and rewarding experience.

The lush, forested slopes, home to chimpanzees, various monkey species, the unique three-horned chameleon, bushbuck, and vibrant birdlife, gradually give way to open steep and rocky trails, revealing breathtaking vistas of the valley below, dense tropical rainforest, and loose scree.

As the hike progresses, it navigates across ancient lava flows, past steaming volcanic fissures, and through high montane forests, before culminating in a steep 300m climb to the summit.

The ultimate reward is the world’s largest lava lake, ablaze with molten red fire, a spectacle that becomes even more mesmerizing at night, as Nyiragongo glows against a starry backdrop, creating an unforgettable experience.

Hikers require good physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes if not they can carry some altitude sickness medicines.

Other Routes!

The ascent and descent times for the other various routes to Mount Nyiragongo’s summit are as follows:

• The Kibumba Route takes 6-8 hours to ascend and 5-6 hours to descend
• The Rungunda Route requires 7-9 hours to ascend and 6-7 hours to descend
• The Masisi Route takes 8-10 hours to ascend and 7-8 hours to descend, making each route a unique and challenging hiking experience.

Hiking Options!

• Day Hike: A challenging 10–12-hour round-trip hike to the summit and back in a single day.

• Overnight Hike: A two-day hike that includes climbing to the summit, spending the night at the Nyiragongo Summit Shelter, and descending the next day.

• Multi-Day Hike: A more leisurely hike that allows for multiple nights at the summit or in nearby camps, with time to explore the surrounding area before descending.

Regardless of the option chosen, it’s essential to be accompanied by a trained park ranger and adhere to park rules and regulations.

Hikers are also advised to pack warm clothing, rain gear, and sleeping bags to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

Safety Considerations for Hiking Mount Nyiragongo!

For a good and safe experience please consider;

• Hire certified guides and armed rangers to guide you through the hike
• Obtain necessary hiking Nyiragongo permits.
• Monitor volcanic activity and follow Virunga National Park authorities’ guidelines.
• Acclimatize to high altitudes and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
• Prepare for unpredictable weather conditions.

What To Wear for Mount Nyiragongo Hike Safaris!

You can choose from some of these comfortable and warm clothing choices before embarking on the hike Mount Nyiragongo safari to see the crater i.e.

What To Pack for Mount Nyiragongo Hike Safaris!

Some of the personal essentials to pack when heading for a hiking safari on Mount Nyiragongo to see the world’s largest lava lake are;

Other Tips

• Wear layers to adjust to changing temperatures.
• Choose quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothing to stay dry.
• Avoid cotton as it can be heavy and slow-drying.
• Consider wearing trekking poles for added stability.
• Pack a repair kit with duct tape, safety pins, and other essentials.

Other Top Tourist Activities Done at Nyiragongo Crater!

Besides hiking to the Nyiragongo crater rim and witnessing the most persistent and world’s largest lava lake you can partake in some of these other activities;

• Lava Lake Viewing
• Wildlife Viewing
• Gorilla Trekking
• Golden Monkey Trekking
• Geological exploration
• Adventure sports
• Birdwatching
• Photography
• Camping and Stargazing safaris
• Volcano Boarding
• Community Visits and Cultural Experiences
• Scientific Research
• Sunrise and Sunset Viewing

It is important to follow safety guidelines, regulations, and park rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable safari experience.

Rules And Regulations for Visiting the Nyiragongo Crater

Some of the guidelines to consider and follow before embarking on a visit to the Nyiragongo crater are;

• Obtain a permit from Virunga National Park authorities.

• Hire certified guides and park armed rangers.

• Ensure good physical health and no medical conditions that may worsen altitude sickness.

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency medical evacuation.

• Respect local regulations, park rules, and environmental guidelines.

• Protect wildlife habitats and do not litter, damage vegetation, or disturb wildlife.

• Support local communities by engaging with guides, porters, and local businesses.

• Be respectful of local traditions and customs.

• Wear safety equipment (sturdy boots, long sleeves, long pants).

• Monitor altitude sickness symptoms and descend if necessary.

• Stay on designated trails to avoid getting lost and prevent erosion.

• Bring sufficient food, water, and warm clothing.

• Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures (evacuation routes, first aid kits).

• No overnight camping allowed on the mountain.

• Group size limited to 12 people.

• Children under 12 years old are not allowed to climb.

• Follow all rules and regulations set by Virunga National Park authorities.

• For safety, climbers are recommended to ascend Mount Nyiragongo between 6am-10am and descend between 10am-4pm

Ongoing Conservation Efforts for Nyiragongo Crater

The Virunga National Park, where Nyiragongo volcano and crater are located, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a protected area, with ongoing conservation efforts to safeguard the park’s biodiversity and natural resources.

These are in the form of; 

• Habitat Protection

Efforts are being made to preserve the natural habitats of endangered species such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and okapi.

• Sustainable Tourism

Responsible tourism practices are being promoted to support conservation efforts and provide economic benefits to local communities.

• Community Engagement

Local communities are being engaged in conservation efforts through education and outreach programs to promote the importance of protecting the park’s natural resources.

• Scientific Research

Continuous monitoring and research are being conducted to better understand the volcano’s dynamics and ecosystem.

• Collaborative Management

The park is managed collaboratively by the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN) and the Virunga Foundation, with support from international organizations and donors.

How To Get to Nyiragongo Crater in Virunga National Park?

Getting to Nyiragongo Crater in Virunga National Park requires careful planning and preparation and this is a step-by-step guide;

Before You Go

• Secure a visa for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from the embassy or consulate in your home country.

• Book or arrange a guided tour with a reputable Congo tour operator, such as the Virunga National Park authorities or a licensed tour operator.

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation.

Travel to Goma in DR Congo

• Fly to Goma International Airport (GOM) from major African cities like Nairobi, Kigali, or Entebbe International Airport.

• Transfer to your hotel or lodge in Goma, which will serve as your base for the Nyiragongo Crater trek.

Alternatively, you can travel from the bordering countries i.e.

• From Rwanda:

Tourists from Rwanda can reach Nyiragongo Crater by flying from Kigali International Airport (KGL) to Goma International Airport (GOM) with RwandAir or Ethiopian Airlines, or by taking a bus or driving from Kigali to Goma, a journey of around 4-5 hours, and crossing the border at the Gisenyi-Goma border post.

• From Uganda:

Hikers from Uganda can reach Nyiragongo Crater by flying from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Goma International Airport (GOM) with Ethiopian Airlines or Kenya Airways, or by taking a bus or driving from Kampala to Goma, a journey of around 7-8 hours, and crossing the border at the Bunagana-Goma border post.

• From Burundi:

Tourists from Burundi can reach Nyiragongo Crater by flying from Bujumbura International Airport (BJM) to Goma International Airport (GOM) with Ethiopian Airlines, or by taking a bus or driving from Bujumbura to Goma, a journey of around 8-10 hours, and crossing the border at the Gatumba-Goma border post.

• From Tanzania:

Hikers or Visitors from Tanzania can reach Nyiragongo Crater by flying from Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Goma International Airport (GOM) with Ethiopian Airlines or Kenya Airways, or by taking a bus or driving from Dar es Salaam or Arusha to Goma, a journey of around 10-12 hours, and crossing the border at the Kasulu-Goma border post.

Trek to Nyiragongo Crater

• Report to the Virunga National Park Headquarters for a briefing and assignment of armed rangers for the hike to Mount Nyiragongo

• Drive or head to the Kibati ranger post, the starting point of the trek (about 30 minutes from Goma).

• Hike to the Nyiragongo crater rim (about 5-6 hours) with your guide and porters.

• Spend the night at the crater rim or nearby climbing shelters along Mount Nyiragongo slopes, enjoying the stunning views of the lava lake.

Returning to Goma

• Descend from the crater and hike back down to Kibati (about 4-5 hours).

• Return to Goma and transfer to your hotel or safari lodge.

• Depart from Goma International Airport for your onward travels or journey.

Please Note

• The trek is challenging and requires good physical fitness.

• Be prepared for sudden rain showers and extreme temperatures.

• Respect local rules, park regulations, and environmental guidelines.

• Check visa requirements, ensure necessary vaccinations and medications, and book reputable transportation and tour operators.

• Stay informed about local security situations and follow advice from local authorities.

Where To Stay When on Nyiragongo Crater Safaris?

When planning a Mount Nyiragongo Crater climb, choosing the right accommodations is essential and these are some of the various options to consider:

• In Goma Town, you can choose from any of these options; 

• Goma Serena Hotel is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Goma, offering elegant rooms, a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi, with prices ranging from $250-$500 per night.

• Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is another 5-star luxury lodging option, providing stunning views of Lake Kivu and modern comforts, with prices between $200-$400 per night.

• Hotel Virunga is a 3-star midrange hotel conveniently located near Virunga National Park, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi, with prices ranging from $100-$200 per night.

• Hotel Nyiragongo is a 3-star hotel that offers easy access to Nyiragongo Volcano, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi, priced between $80-$150 per night.

• Goma Lodge is a 3-star midrange hotel located in a quiet area of Goma, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi, with prices between $60-$120 per night.

• Lake Kivu Hotel is a 3-star hotel that offers stunning views of Lake Kivu, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi, priced between $80-$150 per night.

• Virunga Lodge is a 3-star hotel conveniently located near Virunga National Park, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi, with prices ranging from $100-$200 per night.

• Hotel Ubumwe is a 2-star budget-friendly hotel that offers simple accommodations at an affordable price, with basic rooms, a restaurant, and bar, priced between $20-$50 per night.

• Hotel Vatel is a 2-star hotel conveniently located in the heart of Goma, offering basic rooms, a restaurant, and bar, with prices ranging from $30-$60 per night.

• Hotel Fleur de Lacs is a 2-star hotel that offers stunning views of Lake Kivu, with basic rooms, a restaurant, and bar, priced between $25-$50 per night.

• Hotel la Roche is a 2-star low budget hotel that offers simple accommodations at an affordable price, with basic rooms, a restaurant, and bar, priced between $20-$40 per night.

• Bassin du Congo Hotel is a 2-star hotel conveniently located near the Congo River, offering basic rooms, a restaurant, and bar, with prices ranging from $30-$60 per night.

• Hotel la Versailles Goma is a 2-star hotel that offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, with basic rooms, a restaurant, and bar, priced between $25-$50 per night.

In Kibati Village their other basic lodges and guesthouses, such as;

• Kibati Lodge is a budget-friendly option that offers basic rooms with shared facilities, a restaurant, and a bar, with prices starting from around $20-$40 per night, making it a great choice for those seeking simple accommodations near Nyiragongo Volcano.

• Nyiragongo Guesthouse is another budget-friendly option that provides basic rooms with shared facilities, a restaurant, and a bar, with prices ranging from around $25-$50 per night, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and easy access to Nyiragongo Volcano.

Virunga Camping Sites

Visitors can camp on the mountain at various sites, including

• Bukima Tented Camp: A rustic tented camp located at the base of Mount Nyiragongo, offering basic accommodations and shared facilities, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

• Kibumba Tented Camp: A tented camp situated near the Kibumba trailhead, providing simple accommodations and shared facilities, with easy access to Nyiragongo Volcano.

• Nyiragongo Summit Shelter: A basic shelter located at the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, offering rudimentary accommodations and shared facilities, with breathtaking views of the volcano’s crater.

• Tchegera Tented Camp: A lakeside tented camp situated on the shores of Lake Kivu, offering comfortable accommodations and shared facilities, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountain.

Don’t forget to bring a sleeping bag.

Virunga National Park Lodges 

• Mikeno Lodge: A rustic lodge located within Virunga National Park, offering basic rooms and shared facilities, with stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains.

• Bukima Lodge: A simple lodge situated near the Bukima trailhead, providing basic rooms and shared facilities, with easy access to Mount Nyiragongo and the surrounding national park.

• Nyiragongo Climbing Huts

These are simple accommodations with shared facilities and single beds, located at various elevations on the mountain. Book in advance through a licensed Congo tour operator and pack sleeping bags and warm clothing for cold nights.

Please note that when selecting accommodations, consider proximity to the mountain Nyiragongo, amenities, and safety.

Booking through a reputable tour operator or travel agency is recommended for a smooth safari experience.

Nyiragongo Crater Costs and Tariffs

The following costs are approximate and may vary depending on several factors:

• Permits And Fees

• Guided Tours

• Accommodation

• Transportation

• Hiking Equipment and Gear

Contact Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd for professional guidance and affordable hiking tour packages and book Nyiragongo hiking permits in advance to secure your spot.

Best Time to Visit Nyiragongo Crater on Mount Nyiragongo

The best time to visit Nyiragongo Volcano and Crater is during the dry seasons, which run from June to August and December to February, or mid-May to mid-October.

These periods offer clear skies with breathtaking views, mild temperatures (10-20°C/50-68°F), and dry conditions making hiking easier and safer.

However, consider the following before planning a climbing safari to Nyiragongo: 

• Peak tourist season (June to August and December to February) means larger crowds and higher prices.

• Shoulder season (April-May or September-October) offers smaller crowds and lower prices, but unpredictable weather hence rain showers are expected anytime.

• Avoid visiting during the wet season (March to May, September to November) due to heavy rains making trails muddy, slippery and dangerous.

Additional Tips

• Check the level of volcanic activity at this travel destination with your reputable tour operator
• Ensure your tour company monitors weather forecasts on Nyiragongo volcano
• Confirm Park regulations and closures with Virunga National Park authorities before embarking on this journey

Top Congo Tour Companies

Some of the best Democratic Republic of Congo tour companies that offer the best safari packages are;

• Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
• Congo Gorilla Safaris and Tours
• Wild Gorilla Safaris
• Africa Safaris Tours

Contact a reputable tour company today and schedule your next hassle-free hiking adventure today

Nyiragongo Crater FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What Type of Volcano Is Mount Nyiragongo? /Is Mount Nyiragongo Active?

Nyiragongo volcano stands out as one of the world’s largest and most active volcanoes, boasting a vast 1.2-kilometer-wide caldera summit and steep walls.

Notably, it harbors the world’s largest active lava lake, rendering it one of Africa’s most hazardous volcanoes.

2. Where Is Mount Nyiragongo Located? /What Country Is Mount Nyiragongo In?

Mount Nyiragongo volcano is situated in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s North Kivu province, within the Virunga Mountains and Virunga National Park.

The volcano lies near the city of Goma, bordering Rwanda, and is part of the larger Virunga Volcanic Province, which stretches across the DRC, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Geographically, Mount Nyiragongo is located at Latitude 1.52° S and Longitude 29.25° E.

3. How Was Mount Nyiragongo Formed?

Mount Nyiragongo volcano was formed through a series of geological processes in the Virunga Volcanic Province.

These processes began with rifting and faulting, which created a pathway for magma to rise. As the magma rose, it led to volcanic eruptions, releasing molten lava that accumulated and built up the mountain’s slopes.

Over time, the volcano underwent caldera formation, resulting from the collapse of the volcano.

Eventually, a lava lake formed, creating the distinctive lake of molten lava within the volcano’s crater.

Through these geological processes, Mount Nyiragongo was shaped into the volcanic mountain we see today.

4. What Are the Facts About Mount Nyiragongo?

• Mount Nyiragongo is located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the Virunga Mountains, North Kivu province, near the city of Goma.

• Nyiragongo is one of the world’s most active and dangerous volcanoes.

• The volcano has a vast 1.2-kilometer-wide caldera summit.

• Nyiragongo is home to the world’s largest and most persistent lava lake.

• The summit of Nyiragongo stands at 3,470 meters (11,384 feet) above sea level.

Overall, Nyiragongo Crater is an awe-inspiring natural wonder, offering a unique glimpse into the Earth’s geological and volcanic processes that led to the formation of the world’s largest lava lake at the crater rim packed with viscous molten red fire.

Book you Congo safari tour now and get to this this first hand.